Chicago: Candidate City

With yesterday's selection by the IOC, Chicago went from being an "applicant" city to becoming a candidate city for the 2016 games. Chicago will join Tokyo, Madrid and Rio de Janeiro as the final four host city candidates and observe the Beijing Olympic Games this summer. A year from now, IOC officials will visit each city, and the final selection will be made October 2, 2009.

Congratulations to one of America's greatest cities and one of the world's greatest sports destinations. As a former Chicago resident, I'm thrilled to see the city get the chance to share its charm with the world. I blogged about Chicago's bid a year ago and will keep you posted on the bid process. And in 2016, you can bet I'll be there.